How can such a large home be truly green?

Regarding the "Extreme Green Makeover" of 1117 S. Negley Ave (Homes, Oct. 24), I am astounded that the property can be considered for LEED certification and be touted in the article as meeting "the highest standards for energy usage and environmental design." It does not matter what kind of windows, insulation, energy-saving heating or appliances are used: 8,678 square feet for just two occupants is simply not, by any meaningful measure, energy efficient.

While it is great to showcase eco-friendly homes and lifestyles, especially green renovations in walkable older neighborhoods, the message should not be that we can all live like kings as long as we purchase the right technology. In this time of concern over climate change and dwindling fossil fuel reserves, we need a more realistic vision of how we can live sustainably, within our ecological means.

JENNIFER SCHNAKENBERG
Squirrel Hill

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